So you want to plan a vacation to the tropical island nation of Fiji. Where do you begin? Fiji is made up of over 300 islands, and 500 islets. Going to Fiji can be a bit more complicated then going to other vacation destinations. If you wanted to go to Hawaii, you would only have a handful of islands to choose from, and the experience would be similar no matter where you went. But Fiji is far more diverse.

If you are looking for a true Fijian experience, and not just a south pacific experience, then head out to the Yasawa island chain. This volcanic chain of islands is located to the north west of Fiji’s big island of Viti Levu. When you fly into Fiji, chances are you will be landing in Nadi (on Viti Levu). From there, you can head down to Turtle Airways newly renovated waiting lounge to board your seaplane flight out to the Yasawa island chain. There is a boat transfer service as well, but it takes four to five hours to get to Yasawa, and only leaves once per day. Turtle Airways seaplanes service all of the resorts in Yasawa, and only take about 30 minutes to make the trip from Nadi to Yasawa. We also have several flights leaving per day, so you won’t have to wait to long.

Turtle Airways will take you to the resort of your choice in Yasawa, and there are a lot to choose from. The Yasawa island chain was closed to land based tourism up until 1987. As a result, there is far less of the built up commercialization that you will find in other vacation destinations. The islands are dotted with resorts, but they are mostly small, sustainable resorts built by, or with, the local villages in mind. These resorts accommodate a smaller number of guests then the large, corporate resorts you find in other places. This gives them a much more private and exclusive feel. But don’t think that makes the Yasawa island resorts over priced. Resorts in Yasawa range from inexpensive “backpacker” resorts to high end luxury resorts and everything in between. Whatever your budget, there is a resort in the Yasawa island chain that will fit it.

exclusive FijiTo truly experience Fiji, you must get away from your resort and explore some of the more famous locations around Fiji. In the north of the Yasawa island chain, you will find the Sawa-i-lau caves. These limestone caves are steeped in mystery and legend. You better bring your swimsuit though, because you need to swim into these caves. About midway down the Yasawa islands you can find the famous Blue Lagoon. The location of the 1980 film starring Brooke Shields and Christopher Atkins. Down in the Mamanuca islands you can find Castaway Island and the filming location of the Tom Hanks hit film Castaway.

Turtle Airways offers day trips to all of these amazing locations and more. You can also take a low flying scenic flight and see the islands of Fiji from above. If you are looking for a truly exclusive Fiji experience, then you don’t want to miss out on these adventures.